Kim Jong-un pictured alive after extraordinary claims North Korean leader had died

Inspecting shoes at a factory, no less

On Monday, rumours began to circulate that the dictator died due to a brain hemorrhage.

In the new images which were published by North Korean state media, Kim Jong-un is seen at a garment and footwear exhibition, as he examines women’s coats and children’s footwear.

The new photos were released just hours following the wild claims that quickly took over the internet.

Image credit: Korean Central News Agency

How the rumours regarding Kim Jong-un's “death” spread online

As per the rumours, Kim, 42, had fallen into a coma and died after being rushed to Beijing for emergency treatment.

Much of the speculation has spread on X, with prominent posts reportedly linked to Wanjun Xie, a former student activist and chairman of the Chinese Democracy Party.

Xie has been based in the United States since the late 1990s, having fled China following his involvement in the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests.

He was among those suggesting that Kim may be dead, warning that such a development could raise fears of a potential civil war in North Korea.

However, in spite of these sensational claims, the leader toured the exhibition on Monday (19 October), North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency stated.

Nevertheless, the images have not been independently authenticated and when they were taken exactly remains unclear.

Image credit: Korean Central News Agency

The allegations surrounding his death were not backed by any medical records, images or other independently verifiable evidence.

But on social media, they gained traction as they made their way to international news outlets as “speculation”.

In the meantime, these claims also raised questions about whether Kim's sister, Kim Yo Jong, had taken control as North Korea's Supreme Leader.